Psyllium husk is derived from the seeds of *Plantago ovata* and is an exceptionally fiber-rich supplement. The husk consists of about 70% soluble fiber (mainly a gel-forming *arabinoxylan*) and 30% insoluble fiber. When mixed with water, psyllium’s soluble fiber absorbs liquid and swells into a viscous gel. This gel is **not fully digested or fermented** in the small intestine, allowing psyllium to reach the colon largely intact. These properties underlie its multiple mechanisms of action: * **Gel Formation and Slowed Gastric Emptying:** The thick gel formed by psyllium in the gut slows the emptying of the stomach and the absorption of nutrients. This leads to a steadier digestion process, which helps **attenuate postprandial blood sugar spikes** (by slowing glucose absorption) and **increases satiety** (prolonging fullness after meals). Controlled trials have shown that taking \~10 g of psyllium before meals significantly reduces hunger and desire to eat, by delaying stomach emptying ...
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